Music Review! James Arthur Redeems Himself with New Album Back from the Edge

Now before I start this review, I have to say that these soulful, tattooed boys from overseas are going to be the death of me LOL. Especially the ones who can do vocal runs in their sleep 🙂

I wanted to try to get back to reviewing some Pop music and musicians for you guys but I keep finding these soulful, R&B type albums. Technically this artist’s music is categorized as Pop and can still pull from other genres. Pop is not exactly one dimensional anyway. So, I want to introduce you guys to 28 year old British singer/ songwriter James Arthur who won The X Factor UK back in 2012.

A Little Background…

Now, from what I can see, James has had a very “interesting” few years leading to this new album that was released from his new record label. His past words and actions do seem a bit out there but it looks like he’s grown and gotten himself together for the most part. This album definitely reflects that growth. Most albums that are so raw, honest, full of soul, and amazing usually come from the struggles that the musician went through. Don’t you agree?

Let’s talk about this album… It’s called Back from the Edge (accurately titled) and was released last Friday, October 28^th. I came across it while looking through my Apple Music to see what’s new (as always). The first thing I saw was this brief description of the album: “… A soulful, stripped-down affair from The X Factor UK winner…”. That’s all I needed to see to make me want to check it out. And am I glad that I did. As soon as the first song started I knew I was going to like this one.

Back from the Edge… My Review

His songs combine so many different genres; Pop, R&B/ Soul, a little Hip Hop, and some Rock elements. I can honestly say that if you are going through anything tough in your life or just need a moment to zone out and reflect then this album is perfect. I can say this from experience. I’m going through a rough patch in my life right now and this album couldn’t have come at a better time.

I still cannot believe how amazing this album is to be honest with you. Even though I truly am a fan of every song on this record and can find something that I love about every one of them, I do have a few favorites so far. Of course I love the opening song “Back from the Edge” as it sets the tone for the rest of the tracks.Another favorite of mine is “Train Wreck” with his amazing vocals showing so much raw emotion. You can just hear it in his voice, almost shaky, but it’s beautiful.

Then there’s “Sober” that is a little more upbeat and funky. It’s definitely a nice pick up from the rest of the tracks because who doesn’t like a song that makes you dance a little, on top of the fact that he gives us a nice little “rap”/ speaking part as we get to the end of it. And lastly “Skeletons” is just… It almost reminds me of some of the rock groups I used to when I was in high school. It’s like you have a heavy drum, rock-like beat in the background with some Pop/ R&B vocals laid on top of it. It’s crazy but I love it so much.

I think I need to stop it here because I’ll just end up listing every single song from this album and telling you why I like it LOL. Just take my word for it and check the album out for yourselves. I’m sure there is at least one song you’ll find to relate to or just jam to.

Watch his video for “Say You Won’t Let Go” below…